The Hyde Vineyard is located on the eastern edge of the Carneros appellation in Napa Valley. HdV is a venture between the Hyde Family of Napa Valley and the de Villaine Family of Burgundy. The families, related by marriage, share long histories in French and Californian winemaking.

The 2006 HDV Syrah is to me very reminiscent of some of the wines that can be found in the Cote Rotie appellation located in France's Northern Rhone. It seems to me that it's a cool weather Syrah and one that takes the best of both the California sunshine and the cool Carneros climate.

On the nose I get fantastic and very expressive aromas of black currant, bramble berry, black plum, tea leaf, and tobacco. There is also just a touch of the meaty and game-tyoe aromas that can be associated with Syrah grown in the Northern Rhone.

On the palate the wine is very opulent and rich, but maintains a striking acidity and impeccable balance. I get flavors of black currant, blackberry, mineral, spice, and broiled game meat. The wine also contains a touch of what I like to call the "delicious factor" or a savory character I find in perfectly ripened fruit. Excellent Syrah....93 points

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